Best Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

The city of Pittsburgh was established in 1758 and has a population of 369, 879 in the city, and 1,281,666 in the county. It is the second largest city in Pennsylvania and ranks nationally as one of the most livable cities in the United States. In 2009, Pittsburgh ranked second for lowest natural disaster risk. The Pittsburgh Steelers are notable for appearing at the Super Bowl eight times, winning six. Pittsburgh’s economy has been strong through the national slump, and has given birth to several small businesses including Rent Jungle, Modcloth, and Pikimal. The city has been revitalized and is considered one of the best cities to get back on your feet.

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Pittsburgh was ranked the 7th safest city in 2009 by Forbes, and is noticeably safe for a city of its population. Safer neighborhoods include Mount Lebanon, Mount Nebo, and Woodville.

Top Neighborhoods

Lawrenceville is one of the larger neighborhoods in Pittsburgh and is located northeast of downtown near the riverfront. Currently Lawrenceville is undergoing a revitalization and is known for its real estate appreciation, growing businesses, and strong art culture. Lawrenceville has several bars and restaurants located on Butler Street which runs through the neighborhood. The neighborhood has an exciting array of people, shops, and restaurants, all wrapped in an urban landscape.

Downtown Pittsburgh, also known as the Golden Triangle and the Central Business District, is located between the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers. It houses several major corporations and is the birthplace of industrial barons. There are 10 bridges in the Downtown area alone which have inspired the nickname of “the City of Bridges” to Pittsburgh. Downtown Pittsburgh is a beautiful section of the city and hosts the Cultural District. It houses several galleries, museums, restaurants, and shopping areas as well.

The Strip District is a half mile stretch of land northeast of Downtown and is known for its street vendors and restaurants. It houses Pittsburgh’s historical market district, specialty shops, bars, nightclubs, and ethnic food purveyors. The original Primanti Brothers, a restaurant famous for its large sandwiches topped with coleslaw and french-fries, is located in the heart of the Strip District. Shoppers enjoy the wholesale items and curios found in this district.

Oakland hosts both the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University. There are many college students living in this area, and as could be expected there are equal amounts of college accoutrements. Several college aged bars are located on Craig Street and around 5th Avenue. Housing is generally more suited to students, but other housing is also available. Oakland is home to college bars, restaurants, and coffee shops, and is an exciting section of the city.

Shadyside is one of the more upscale neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, and is known for its restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers. Walnut Street rests in the center of Shadyside and is home to several chic stores, curios, and eateries. Though one can expect to pay higher rent in Shadyside, the tree-lined streets and pleasant qualities of the housing here make up for the expense. It is a very suitable home for professionals and young couples in the city.

Squirrel Hill, located east of downtown Pittsburgh, is buttressed by Schenley Park and Frick Park. It is located near both Oakland and Shadyside, making this area ideal for college students and families alike. It is known for its large Jewish population, making up roughly 40% of its inhabitance and adding to the cultural and historical significance of the area. Chatham University is located in Squirrel Hill as well, as are certain parts of Carnegie Mellon University. Squirrel Hill is a beautiful and safe neighborhood, and is a great location for professionals and new graduates.

Mt. Washington is located south of downtown and rests atop a steep slope overlooking the city. The vista was ranked second for the most beautiful vista in America by USA Weekend. Tourists are encouraged to ride the Monongahela Inclines, the oldest continuous inclines in the world, up the slope to enjoy the view. There are several restaurants and shops that share the view of Pittsburgh’s skyline, as well as the choice residential properties.

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